It’s always fun to try a new party punch, and this one uses a familiar fall favorite, apple cider! I LOVE cider, and I don’t always particularly want it hot. This drink turns it into a sweet, spicy, cool beverage to enjoy by yourself or with a group of friends. Wouldn’t this be tasty at your next holiday gathering?
There is ginger ale in the punch, which is optional. Adding it makes the punch bubbly, lightens it up a bit, and gives it a bit more of a hint of spice from the ginger. If you leave it out, you’ll have a more potent, fruity punch. It’s tasty either way, so try it both ways and find out what you like the most!
Some people call it “Poison Apple” because of the cranberry juice. I like that little tang.
Make the Cider First
Cider Ingredients:
12 small/medium apples (choose your favorite depending on the flavor and sweetness you prefer)
1 small orange
1 vup brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2-3 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground cloves
water, enough to cover
Cider Directions:
- Wash and chop whole apples and your orange. (No need to remove peels, seeds, or stems.)
- Put everything into a large pot and then add the spices.
- Cover with water, and bring it to a boil. Continue to boil uncovered for 1 hour.
- Next, cover the pot, reduce heat, and simmer for an additional 2 hours.
- Using a potato masher, roughly mash all ingredients.
- Continue to simmer until cider is dark, tasting sweet and spicy. Allow to cool.
- Strain everything, allowing the liquid to drain into a large pot.
- Store in a refrigerator.
To Make the “Poison Apple” Punch
Poison Apple Ingredients:
1 part apple cider
1 part cranberry juice
1 part Ginger Ale (optional)
Ice (for each glass)
To Make the Punch:
- Pour apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale into a pitcher. Stir to combine.
- Add ice to each glass.
- Pour your punch into the glass and enjoy.
Doesn’t this look and sound yummy!?
I’m sure if you wanted, you could even spike this punch. It’s great for the holidays, or even during the spring and summer as it is served iced. I would love to hear how you like it in the comments below!
